Thainess and Otherness of Tai Lue, Thai Yong, and Karen Ethnic Groups in Lamphun Province

Abstract

The research article aimed at the following objectives: 1) to investigate Thainess and otherness of Tai Lue, Thai Yong, and Karen ethnic groups in Lamphun Province; and 2) to develop and disseminate the process of building understanding for coexistence among diversity. The study used a qualitative research method based on documentary and action research. The research instruments included an interview form and a knowledge package. The collected data were examined using content analysis and presented using a descriptive technique.

From the study, the following results were found: 1) Thainess is made up of three ethnic groups who are granted rights and treated fairly under Thai law. The otherness have their own style of dress and spoken language, prefer to eat vegetables, build their houses on raised platforms, respect ancestors and the elderly, worship household and forest deities as community norms, and believe in Buddhism; and 2) The process of building understanding for coexistence of Thainess and Otherness led to the knowledge package "Thainess based on Fairness," which represents not only Thainess but also Otherness and Brahmavihāra (the four sublime states of mind). As a result, people in society have a greater understanding of the ways of life of ethnic groups, which has led to more peaceful coexistence. This has been disseminated through print media, social media and government agencies.